CD Duplication

Not sure if this is a hardware or software matter - or both. We have a need to copy CD-ROMs of proceedings of a conference, to be produced and distributed to 300 participants on the last day. Can't justify buying a CD Duplicator for this one-time need, but to speed things up, thinking of adding a second (or more?) CD writer in a desk top computer.

Are there any limitations on this? Assume a maximum of three writers, since ATA usually limits four drives. Can we use the Windows copy, or do we need another program? Will the standard free Nero do the job?

Alternatives

I'm not sure of the technical limitations, but being a brain-stormin' kinda guy, have you considered these solutions?

<UL><LI>Rent a duplicator. It might be more expensive and complicated than you need, but there you go.
<LI>Get more computers. Have the organizers bring in their machines and get yourself an assembly line.
<LI>Get more computers, version two. (I'm assuming lots of folks have laptops with them.) Explain the situation to the participants. The first people in line to receive a CD must make two copies to the give to the next folks, who must also make two copies.
<LI>Forget about CD's. You can buy half gig USB drives for less than ten bucks today.
<LI>Forget about CD's, version two. Why not put the info on-line? You an create a secure FTP site whereby folks can download everything, or build a fancy web site where they cherry pick and discuss the findings. [/list]

Re: CD Duplication

You didn't say how much time you have to produce the 300 CDs! I suspect that will be the critical factor.

I rather like the idea of not producing any CDs whatever, after the principle that the best way of optimising something is not to do it at all..., but to help save the planet by putting the Proceedings on a website, or give each participant a promotional USB Flash Drive...